Autumn Chili Bake
A hearty and flavorful baked rigatoni dish with ground beef, spicy peppers, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings during autumn.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the rigatoni.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions, red peppers, chili powder, cayenne, and salt to the skillet. Cook until onions are tender.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water; simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- In a 2-quart casserole, toss the cooked rigatoni with the meat mixture.
- Cover and bake at 325°F (162°C) for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with shredded cheese. Serve once cheese has melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also add black beans for extra protein and fiber. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne to taste. Use a variety of cheeses for topping, like pepper jack or mozzarella, which can enhance the flavor profile. This dish also works well as a meal prep option.
Serving Suggestions
This Autumn Chili Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a comforting meal. For added crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole can enhance the flavors, making it a delightful option for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If baking in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning and add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Autumn Chili Bake contains roughly 591 calories, with 26g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (326% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (150% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1582mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also increase the chili powder or cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level, ensuring to taste as you go to achieve the desired flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).